DermWorld Academy Insider: What makes a good Board of Directors candidate?

June 26, 2025

The call for nominations for the 2026 AAD Election is currently underway. During the call for nominations window, the Academy seeks qualified candidates for the AAD/A Board of Directors.

In this exclusive DermWorld Academy Insider interview, Adam J. Friedman, MD, FAAD, chair of the AAD Nominating Committee, discusses the call for nominations, navigating the nomination process, and what makes a good Board of Directors candidate.

DermWorld: What qualities should an effective board member bring to the table?

Dr. Friedman: An effective Board of Directors member must bring a strong commitment to the Academy’s mission and a demonstrated ability to lead in various arenas. The most successful candidates are those who have demonstrated that they are strategic thinkers, collaborative leaders, and respected communicators who are trusted by their peers through previous service. They should have demonstrated the maturity to prioritize the collective needs of the specialty over personal ambitions… interpret that as you will.

Participation in initiatives like the AAD Leadership Forum and Leadership Institute Program is a strong indicator of commitment to professional growth within the Academy. While leadership experience in other organizations — whether academic, hospital based, or advocacy oriented — is certainly beneficial, what truly distinguishes candidates is a strong and reliable reputation developed through service on Academy specific committees, councils, and task forces. We like to see repeat offenders at the American Academy of Dermatology Association Legislative Conference as well; it’s about showing up over and over again, not just checking a box.

DermWorld: How important is prior Academy experience or service within the Academy governance structure?

Dr. Friedman: It’s essential. The Academy’s governance structure is complex and nuanced, and it’s extremely difficult to contribute meaningfully as a Board member without first understanding how the Academy functions from the inside. This is why we place such value on sustained, substantive participation in committees, task forces, and work groups.

Participation in the AAD Leadership Forum, AAD Leadership Institute, and the AADA Legislative Conference also speaks volumes. These experiences expose members to the Academy’s strategic priorities, policy-making process, and advocacy efforts. Academy specific experience is the backbone of a credible and hopefully successful candidacy.

The follow up to that is: “Well, how do I get involved or selected for CCTFs?” Fair question! First, complete an application. The 2026 application will be open until June 30, 2025, but if you miss that deadline, applications reopen in the spring each year. Then, phone a friend or colleague and ask them to complete a recommendation form for you. Investigate the missions of the different committees to see which interest you, speak with colleagues who are serving on those committees, and then stick with it.

We are a small community, so you will get back what you put in.

DermWorld: What are some ways members can gain experience if they feel theirs might not be sufficient?

Dr. Friedman: There are many excellent pathways for members looking to strengthen their involvement. Volunteering for CCTFs is one of the most direct and impactful routes to gain insight into Academy operations. These opportunities help members build institutional knowledge and cultivate a reputation for dependability and thoughtful collaboration. Don’t become distraught if you don’t get on your first choice for a committee.

Not to be redundant, but engaging in the AAD Leadership Forum or Leadership Institute Program is another excellent step for those early in their leadership journey, but more importantly, that’s where you can meet many senior members who can support your application for said CCTFs. Similarly, attending the AADA Legislative Conference can help you better understand and contribute to the Academy’s advocacy and policy initiatives.

While leadership in external organizations is valuable, the most effective Board candidates are those who have proven themselves through their work within the Academy by showing up, doing the work, and earning the respect of colleagues across the spectrum of Academy activities.

DermWorld: How important are letters of recommendation to the nomination process? What are you looking for letters of recommendation to contain?

Dr. Friedman: Letters of recommendation are a key part of the nomination process. They help us understand who a candidate is beyond the CV by elaborating on how they lead, how they collaborate, and how they contribute. We’re looking for letters that are insightful, specific, and grounded in direct experience. The most compelling letters often come from colleagues who have worked closely with the candidate on Academy committees, task forces, or governance roles, as they can attest to the candidate’s effectiveness in the Academy’s unique environment.

Again, quality always trumps quantity. A few detailed, genuine letters from respected colleagues are far more meaningful than a stack of vague endorsements, thumbs ups, and Instagram likes. Ultimately, we want to see how the candidate has earned the trust and respect of others through sustained, visible contributions that align with the Academy’s mission and future vision.